Save
Parmesan Crusted Chicken brings a crunchy, tasty layer to juicy chicken breasts while roasting a colorful mix of vegetables together for an easy, all-in-one meal. It works great on busy nights when you want something tasty without a lot of hassle.
I whipped this up on a hectic night when I craved something cozy that didn’t take forever. It quickly became one of my favorites because it feels like a treat but is still super easy to throw together anytime.
What You Need
- Four chicken breasts: lean and tender, cooks evenly without fuss
- One cup bread crumbs: panko works best for a crispy texture, try giving them a light toast for extra crunch
- One cup grated Parmesan cheese: fresh is best for a salty, nutty flavor that makes the crust shine
- Italian seasoning: a blend of herbs like oregano and basil that pairs perfectly with chicken
- Garlic powder: adds a warm aroma without the chopping
- Two tablespoons olive oil: helps the crust stick and gets it golden in the oven
- Four cups mixed vegetables: think broccoli, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes for color and nutrients
- One tablespoon lemon juice: optional but adds a fresh zing that cuts through the richness
- Salt and pepper: to taste, for seasoning that brings everything together
How To Make It
- Mix Seasoning:
- In a shallow dish, stir together Parmesan, bread crumbs, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. If you have time, toast the bread crumbs first for extra crispiness.
- Coat The Chicken:
- Rub olive oil all over the chicken breasts. Press them down into the cheese mixture so each piece is evenly covered and will get a nice crunchy crust once baked.
- Prep The Veggies:
- Toss your veggies with olive oil, salt, and pepper in another bowl. This helps them caramelize and roast nicely with the chicken.
- Arrange On Pan:
- Lay the Parmesan-coated chicken on one side of a big baking sheet. Spread the veggies out on the other side so they cook evenly and don’t steam.
- Bake It:
- Put the pan in an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) and roast for 20 to 25 minutes. The chicken is done when it hits 165°F (74°C) inside and the veggies are tender with some caramelized spots.
- Add Lemon:
- Right before serving, drizzle lemon juice over the chicken and veggies to give the dish a bright lift.
Parmesan is what makes this dish stand out for me. Its salty richness builds a crust that you can’t stop craving. Early on I realized you’ve got to press that crust on tight or it just slips off. This takes me back to cozy family dinners where everyone comes back for more.
Storing Leftovers
Let the leftovers cool then keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To keep the crust crispy, reheat in the oven or toaster oven rather than the microwave.
Swap Ideas
If you’d rather dark meat, thighs work fine—just cook a bit longer. You can replace bread crumbs with crushed cornflakes or gluten-free crumbs to fit your needs. Fresh herbs can switch out Italian seasoning for a brighter, fresher taste.
Serving Suggestions
Try serving this with creamy mashed potatoes or over rice for a filling meal. A simple green salad or some garlic bread goes well with the roasted veggies and chicken. Drizzle a little olive oil or balsamic glaze on top for extra flavor.
This meal is a solid balance of flavor and simplicity. It’s great for quick weeknight dinners or when you have company. A few easy steps and you get a home-cooked dish that feels a little special every time.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → How can I make the chicken crust extra crispy?
Toast the breadcrumbs first before mixing with Parmesan to get that perfect crunch when baking.
- → Are there other veggies I can roast with this dish?
Definitely, green beans, zucchini, or carrots are great options and go well with Parmesan chicken.
- → What’s the right temperature to cook the chicken?
Make sure the chicken hits 165°F (74°C) inside so it’s cooked safely all the way through.
- → Does olive oil play a big role here?
Yes, it helps the crust stick to the chicken and gives roasted veggies that nice golden color.
- → Is it okay to add lemon juice?
A little fresh lemon squeezed on top adds a bright kick and lifts the whole dish’s flavor.